PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN

Keeping children safe is our number one priority. It is estimated that in more than 90% of child abuse cases, the abuse does not come from a stranger, but from someone who has won the trust of the child and parents. Detecting such a person requires a special awareness of certain common factors.

While we are unaware of any such incidents involving any of our coaches or volunteers, it is, nevertheless, prudent to pass along this sound information provided by the Diocese of Brooklyn. What follows is taken from their guide which is presented in training seminars given to those who coach children. Any adult in position of authority should follow rules of behavior when dealing with kids and we ask that all coaches and volunteers familiarize themselves with the following guidelines:

Knowing the warning signs means that we can recognize the early stages of an inappropriate relationship with a child. If we know the warning signs, then we can identify potential abuse before it happens. If we know the warning signs, we do not have to rely on a child to report an incident. What to look for:

• Discourages other adults from participating or monitoring.
• Always wants to be alone with children.
• More excited to be with children than adults.
• Gives gifts to children, often without permission.
• Goes overboard touching.
• Always wants to wrestle or tickle.
• Thinks the rules do not apply to them.
• Allows children to engage in activities their parents would not allow.
• Uses bad language or tells dirty jokes to children.
• Shows children pornography

Controlling access means that we are careful about whom we allow to work with our children. It also sends a message to potential child molesters that we are alert about child sexual abuse. As a matter of practice, our organization does the following:

• Communicate our commitment to keeping children safe.
• Require background checks of all volunteers and employees.
• Complete face-to-face interviews of all prospective employees and volunteers.
• Require and check references.

Those seeking to abuse our kids will look for ways to spend time alone with children. It is decidedly more difficult to abuse children without getting caught if someone is watching. To that end, we encourage the following measures to create and maintain a safe environment:

• Wherever practical, structure interactions with children in group settings and public places.
• Identify secluded areas, limit access and lock empty rooms.
• Employ policies addressing the use of secluded areas (e.g., staff should check bathrooms before sending children in alone).
• Do not permit children to enter staff-only areas.
• Only meet with children where other adults can pass by.
• Staff should periodically observe programming activities.
• Maximize the number of adults are involved in each programs.
• Encourage parents to observe and drop in on programs.

Being aware means that parents should know what is going on in the lives of their own children. Parents should talk with their children, listen to them, and observe them. When we observe and communicate with our children, we are more likely to detect any indications that they may be in danger. Any sudden or subtle change in behavior can be a sign. Becoming moody or aggressive, losing interest in school, or no longer taking care of their personal hygiene could be signs of trouble. We encourage parents to do the following:

• Talk to your children.
• Listen to your children.
• Observe your children.
• Let your children know they can tell you anything.
• Teach your children where their private parts are.
• Talk to your children often about protecting themselves.
• Teach your children what to do if someone tries to touch them.
• Teach your children what to do if someone makes them uncomfortable.

Communicating your concerns means telling someone when you are uncomfortable with a situation or if you suspect abuse. It means paying attention to your own feelings and not waiting until it is too late. Only by communicating concerns can we use our knowledge to protect children. Even if abuse is not occurring, it is still important to let others know when you have concerns. Should you suspect anything, please:

• Talk to the person involved, and/or;
• Speak to their supervisor, and/or;
• Contact 78 Youth Sports, and/or ;
• Call the police.

Always be vigilant and make sure that your children are never alone and unsupervised with anyone whom you are not thoroughly familiar and that you report to us and the police any behavior that is suspicious.